After three incredible years, I’ve officially wrapped up my time at DIY Girls—and I’m still processing all the growth, the memories, and the deeply meaningful work we got to do together. Since announcing my departure, I’ve been feeling an overwhelming wave of gratitude from my team and students, and it’s been one of the most affirming experiences of my career.
Before DIY Girls, I was teaching coding at 9 Dots, supporting Title I students and teachers across Los Angeles County. Helping under-resourced communities see themselves in tech became a true passion. DIY Girls gave me an even deeper connection to that mission by allowing me to focus specifically on middle school girls and gender-expansive youth. Even more powerful, I had the chance to serve the very neighborhoods I grew up in. That felt like a full-circle moment—one that was healing, grounding, and transformative.
What I loved most about my role were the relationships I built with my students. Middle school is such a weird and pivotal time. I saw firsthand how much it meant for students to have a creative outlet—to learn about engineering and technology in a space that celebrated fun, expression, and identity. When I was writing curriculum, that was always the goal: make it relevant, make it empowering, and make it joyful.
DIY Girls middle school students on an all-expenses-paid trip to AstroCamp
One of my proudest accomplishments was leading the revamp of our middle school curriculum. We launched a new student project where youth designed themed canvas art infused with embroidery, circuits, 3D printing, and storytelling. The goal was to show that having multiple interests—art, tech, culture—is a strength, not a contradiction. And while piloting this curriculum came with a ton of unexpected challenges, it taught me the value of vulnerability and adaptability. When things didn’t go as planned, I leaned into those moments with my students. I let them see that mistakes are part of the process, and that helped us build trust and resilience together.
I also made lasting friendships with my colleagues. A special thank you to my supervisor, Cristina Gutierrez—her belief in me gave me space to grow, create, and lead. Cristina is one of the most dedicated, supportive, and thoughtful leaders I’ve ever worked with, and I’m so grateful for her guidance during this chapter.
Even though I’ve worked with students for the past four years and I’m stepping away from the classroom for now, I will always be a teacher and a student. Teaching is one of the most undervalued and powerful skills we have—it’s where communication, empathy, problem-solving, and leadership all come together.
As much as I loved my time at DIY Girls, I knew it was time to take the same advice I gave to my students: to chase something new, something challenging, and to get comfortable being uncomfortable. I’m carrying everything I’ve learned with me as I step into a new leadership role—and I can’t wait to share what’s next.
Stay tuned for where I’ve landed. Until then, see ya.
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